Saint Anthony Falls, Minneapolis

Saint Anthony Falls, the only natural major waterfall on the Upper Mississippi River, is a captivating landmark in the heart of Minneapolis, United States. Once the centerpiece of the region's thriving milling industry, the falls have a storied history that has shaped the city's development. Today, these falls are not only a testament to natural beauty but also to the ingenuity of human engineering.

Spanning the Mississippi River, Saint Anthony Falls was a critical source of power for Minneapolis's milling operations during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This led to the city's nickname, "Mill City." The falls' powerful current turned water wheels that powered the mills, which in turn contributed to Minneapolis becoming the world's flour milling capital by the late 1800s.

Over time, the original stone over which the river flowed has been replaced with a concrete overflow spillway to prevent erosion and collapse. This modification has allowed Saint Anthony Falls to remain a central feature of the Minneapolis riverfront, blending the natural environment with urban infrastructure.

The area around the falls has been transformed into the Saint Anthony Falls Historic District, where visitors can explore the Mill City Museum, the Stone Arch Bridge, and the lock and dam system. The falls serve as a stunning backdrop for the city and offer various recreational activities, including walking and biking trails, sightseeing, and photography opportunities.